Boating alone – tips that can save your life

In most cases boating is a social sport which can be enjoyed with friends and family, but sometimes if you need some time alone to clear up your head and to feel independent and free again, you can set up the sail and enjoy the ride alone. It doesn’t matter if your ride is short, or if you planned a trip to be few days long, there are some challenges you will need to meet. Because, on this trip, the only person you can rely on is you.

1. You will need to possess proper boat that is in top condition.
Going to the sea in any other conditions is punishable by the law in many countries. After all, your own life is at stake here, so you should be most concerned by that. It is of high importance for your boat to be in excellent shape. Any malfunction, even the small one can create serious problems when you are on open water and alone. Check everything twice, before you engage yourself in this kind of trip.

2. Think about food
Since you will be enjoying the ride alone, you will need to prepare your meals by yourself and clean afterward. This may seem as a relaxing and even fun task, but if you are caught in a bad situation, or in a storm, the dishes and groceries may be trashed around the boat. So, you will need to think in advance, bring as many tetra – packs, prepared sandwiches and snacks as you can. Anything that will make this situation easier and mess-free. Store food at some reachable place, so it can be taken with you, in case you need to abandon the boat.

3. Safety and emergency gear are MUST

When preparing yourself for this type of journey, just remember that this equipment may determine if you live or die. There are various devices that can be really handy and some of them work on battery, so you will need to carry a charger with you. VHF radio is your priority because search and rescue plane can catch and track its signal, but this cannot be done with mobile phones. All charts should be up to date and at least, some rudimentary navigational skill is required from you. Before you leave on a trip, mark some spots on a chart, where you can stop in a case of emergency. You should wear personal flotation device with you all the time. For any additional equipment, you may contact us and our experts will advise you what to bring.

4. Learn to make small repairs
At crisis situations, this may come as a handy solution, by knowing the mechanics of your boat at least in some elementary level, you will be able to make small repairs when needed. Your collection of tools should involve tape, wire, minor spare parts for small repairs and moisture displacing spray.

5. Consider about weather
Watch the weather forecast few days in advance and determine whether those conditions are best for you and your trip. You don’t want to hit some massive storm that can cause you problems and ruin your enjoyment.